Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Skin tests offer stem cell hope

Source: BBC News
Posted: 6 June 2007, 23:47 GMT 00:47 UK

Summary:

BBC News reports on new research in which scientists were able to reversing skin cells to a state in which the cells possessed traits of embryonic stem cells:

"New experiments carried out on mice suggest it may be possible to replicate embryonic stem cells from skin patches, rather than having to use embryos. Japanese and US researchers made the discovery, which represents a key breakthrough in stem cell research. If the same can be done in humans, it could lessen or remove the need for the controversial use of embryos. It is hoped stem cells will one day be used to replace tissue damaged by diseases like Parkinson's and MS."